The Yomiuri article suggests that they would be used for territorial overwatch, stating that “three reconnaissance drones would be necessary to cover all of Japan’s territory and surrounding waters.” That would be at a unit cost of about ¥7.5 billion, plus the cost of the infrastructure. The article also mentions concerns over subsequent personnel cuts, although these officials don’t have to worry. A UAV fleet would be unlikely to replace the current 100-bird strong MSDF P-3C reconnaissance fleet in the short term. The Global Hawk will be a valuable strategic tool, but it is unlikely that it will mothball its manned counterpart after the Ministry spent so much money putting them into service. Just look at how many Type 74 tanks are still service in the GSDF.

If the Defense Ministry can pin down just what it wants a long-range UAV to be capable of, and use the capability in tandem with the current P-3C fleet, they will be able to constantly monitor Japanese territorial waters. That seems to be a realistic aim, but a couple of questions remain: Is it possible within the current budget, and who would fly them?